Commencement 2026:
Leading the Way
The Rutgers-Camden and Graduate School Commencement is a unified ceremony where you, the graduate students of the Graduate School-Camden, along with your peers from all other Rutgers-Camden schools, will have your degrees conferred. What does this mean for you? It signifies that the Graduate School-Camden is leading the way. While the ceremony will symbolically celebrate the achievements of all students, only you, the Graduate School-Camden graduates, will be walking across the stage on May 19th. Your accomplishments will be in the spotlight, highlighting your leadership, scholarship, and celebrating your hard work.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Tuesday, May 19
1:00 PM
Freedom Mortgage Pavilion
1 Harbour Blvd,
Camden, NJ 08103
- Eligibility for Commencement: If you completed your degree in October 2025, January 2026, or are set for May 2026, you’re invited to Commencement.
- Diploma Application for May Graduates: May 2026 graduates should have filed a diploma application indicating their intent to graduate and their intent to attend Commencement. The deadline to submit the diploma application is Sunday, March 1.
- Contact for Unfiled Applications: If you have not submitted a diploma application and believe you will graduate, please contact camgrad@camden.rutgers.edu immediately.
A Commencement of Distinction
The Rutgers-Camden and Graduate School Commencement offers a unique opportunity to hear from university leadership in a ceremony that unites all schools’ students. What sets this event apart is that you, as graduates, will be individually recognized. You’ll be the only students to walk across the stage, making your achievements especially highlighted.
Doctoral Degree Graduates
PhD candidates will have their dissertation titles announced as we honor their significant achievements in completing their studies. Additionally, the ceremony will include your hooding, signifying the importance of having your dissertation chair present.
Master’s Degree Graduates
For Master’s graduates, although there are no honors at the graduate level, we celebrate those who have completed a final project, capstone, thesis, or comprehensive exam with distinction. If chosen by your advisor, this distinction will be acknowledged during the ceremony.
Regalia
All participants need regalia. To obtain your regalia, please visit Rutgers-Camden Commencement Regalia Information.
If you find that you have trouble fixing your regalia, we may be able to help on the day of at the venue. However, it may be worth trying on your set before walking.
Graduate students, unfortunately, do not have Honors stoles.
Commencement Day of Details
No Rehearsal Needed
We’ve got you covered! You’ll be sorted by program with your classmates into designated rows. When it’s your turn, just follow the lead in the order you’re seated, with your faculty marshals there to guide.
Arrival Time
Degree candidates should report promptly between 11:15 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. to the Benjamin Franklin Lobby at the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion. Please do not be tardy!!! You must wear your regalia.
More Info
Guests of graduates can enter at the main entrance of the pavilion at noon. Guests are not allowed at the graduates’ entrance (Benjamin Franklin Lobby)
You will check in and then be directed to your line by our Marshals, staff, and on-site volunteers, who will provide complete instructions at that time. Candidates will process in by program.
Marshals will lead each row of graduates to the stage. The commencement reader will announce the name of each candidate. (If there is a best way to pronounce your name correctly, please let us know so that we can notify the event’s readers of graduates’ names.) Do not advance until your name is read. We ask that you behave courteously toward other graduates. No air horns or any disruptive noisemakers will be permitted. Graduates are also expected to remain for the duration of the ceremony.
The ceremony begins promptly at 1 p.m. and ends close to 3 p.m.
More details regarding Commencement 2026 are available online here, with other events such as Rites of Passage.
Live Streaming Webcast
View commencement online. A high-speed internet connection, such as cable or a fiber optic network, is recommended.
Guest-Friendly Venue: Accommodations for All
The Freedom Mortgage Pavilion stands as a world-class venue, offering seating for thousands—perfect for accommodating graduates’ families and friends. Commencement will not be a ticketed ceremony. Please invite as many friends and family as you’d like!
Entry Points for a Smooth Experience
Graduates will access the venue through the Ben Franklin Lobby, while family and guests will make their entrance via the Walt Whitman Lobby. To ensure the safety of everyone present, graduates wishing to wear their regalia should be prepared for security checks.
Accommodations for Every Guest
The Freedom Mortgage Pavilion is dedicated to ensuring all guests enjoy the ceremony comfortably. We have reserved select seating areas specifically for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, live captioning will be available for the Commencement live feed, ensuring everyone can follow the proceedings. Should you require special accommodations, we encourage you to contact the Office of Disability Services well in advance of Commencement at disability-services@camden.rutgers.edu.
For graduates and guests requiring accessibility accommodations, find more information via https://camden.rutgers.edu/commencement/accessibility-information on accessible seating, interpreting services, service animals, and more.
Chancellor’s Graduation Picnic
Join us by the Delaware River for an unforgettable graduation picnic. Enjoy the company of friends and family in a picturesque setting.
Time and Place
The Chancellor’s Graduation Picnic will take place immediately following Commencement. So, mark your calendars for 3 PM to 5 PM at the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion.
What to Expect
Celebrate with your fellow grads and guests on the banks of the Delaware River on the lawn of the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion.
Invite Your Loved Ones
This event is free for graduates and guests, and registration is required.
Registration Details
Ensure you and your guests are registered for this once-in-a-lifetime celebration.
